A FATHER caught for the second time with a stash of Class A drugs has escaped jail.

Lee Thomas Stewart was pulled over by police on Green Lane in Acklam in February. Officers discovered over £800 worth of heroin hidden in a pair of gloves.

The 26-year-old explained that he was acting as “a courier” in order to pay off a drugs debt relating to a previous conviction when he was jailed for dealing cocaine.

Defending him at Teesside Crown Court, Stephen Constantine said after serving the 21-month sentence, Stewart came under pressure to repay the dealer for the cocaine seized by police.

“He came out of prison to be told the debt was still there and had gone up with interest,” he said.

“He was unemployed and those nearest and dearest to him were being pressurised. Foolishly he agreed to act to try to pay off this debt, as is so often the case.”

Judge Peter Armstrong told Stewart on Friday: “Those who courier drugs for others are still involved and part of the chain.”

Stewart, of Staindale Road, Thornaby, pleaded guilty to the offence and was given a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for two years. He must also carry out 300 hours of unpaid work and pay £1,200 costs.

The judge said if he was caught dealing again he would face at least seven years’ imprisonment.